Provides protection of life and property: suppresses, controls and extinguishes fires; performs search, rescue, extrication of victims, and forcible entries; assists individuals from burning structures; establishes openings in buildings for entrance, ventilation, or salvage; ventilates smoke and gas from buildings; performs salvage operations such as throwing salvage covers, sweeping water, and removing debris; assists with cleanup activities; and exercises control of emergency situations until relieved by a superior officer. Maintains a state of constant readiness and preparation for emergency response: checks and maintains stock of equipment and supplies on fire vehicles and in fire station; re-loads equipment and apparatus following response to emergency calls; assists in preparing apparatus for subsequent emergencies and in testing personal equipment, hoses and pumps, and other tools and apparatus; and ensures the emergency medical service equipment is properly stocked and operational.